August 2009 

Dear SPAN Members and Fellow Advocates,

I would like to express my  appreciation  of your vote of confidence in electing me President of SPAN for the next two years.  I am honored to be entrusted with this position of responsibility.   I would like to thank Reva for her incredible leadership and look forward to her continued support as SPAN's Past President Advisor.

Over the past  year,  SPAN has experienced a significant increase in both membership and program attendance.    This growth reflects  the dedication of our Board of Directors who have   worked tirelessly  throughout the year to provide professional development opportunities, resources and support for Massachusetts  advocates, professionals and parents .  It also reflects the dedication of statewide advocates toward  further developing  their individual advocacy skills.  

Highlights of our achievements include: 

• Well attended Professional Development programs
• Creation of the SPAN brochure which was widely distributed to professionals and organizations within the special needs community as well as made available at programs provided by other organizations.
• Upgrade to the Professional Directory which allows the opportunity to be listed in any number of regional directories.
• Redesigned web site with additional features that provide online registrations and payments, as well as online access to SPAN
• Distribution of a survey to gather input from members and others regarding SPAN's past and future initiatives, professional development programs, networking opportunities, etc.

A proposal was passed to increase the size of the  Board of Directors  to twenty-one members.   This increase provides an additional wealth of energy,  expertise, and experience .    The Board is excited and motivated as we work on  a number of new and exciting initiatives underway for this year.  Continue to visit our web site regularly for updates and announcements.   

In order to effectively achieve the mission and purpose of  SPAN,  we ask that  you consider actively participating in one of several volunteer opportunities in  any one of our very active Committees.     For more information on how you can contribute time, expertise  and/or donations please do not hesitate to contact us.   We value your support.

We look forward to providing another year of excellent programming, resources and networking opportunities in our efforts to further advance the profession of Special Education Advocates.

With Best Regards,